US clears $911M FMS from Bahrain for 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters

The US State Department approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Bahrain of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters for an estimated cost of $911.4 million, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on April 27, 2018.

"This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major Non-NATO ally which is an important security partner in the region. Our mutual defense interests anchor our relationship and the Royal Bahraini Air Force plays a significant role in Bahrain's defense," the DSCA stated.

"Bahrain will use this capability as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen its homeland defense," the Agency added. The principal contractors will be Bell Helicopter and General Electric Company.

The AH-1Z Viper, also called "Zulu Cobra", is a twin-engine attack helicopter. Based on the AH-1W SuperCobra, the Viper features a four-blade, bearingless, composite main rotor system, uprated transmission, and a new target sighting system. Its two redesigned wing stubs are longer, with each adding a wing-tip station for a missile such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder. Each wing has two other stations for 2.75-inch (70 mm) Hydra 70 rocket pods, or AGM-114 Hellfire quad missile launchers.